Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson: Let's celebrate the contribution of volunteers

Wiltshire Police and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner  recognise the significant contribution that volunteers make to Wiltshire Police and the communities of Wiltshire and Swindon.

Observed annually during the first week of June, national Volunteers’ Week gives Wiltshire Police and the OPCC another opportunity to highlight and celebrate all that volunteers do to contribute to policing in Wiltshire.

Volunteers’ week 2017 ‘You make the difference’ promotes the impact volunteers make to individuals, industry, business and communities, and encourages organisations to share opportunities to become involved.

Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson who is an advocate for volunteers, and himself a volunteer with a Swindon based charity said: “The public play an important role in how we police, and I would like to express my sincere thanks to all those who volunteer through the OPCC and Wiltshire Police.

“The contributions volunteers make across the organisation reflects positively in the work we do, and enables us to offer an improved and extended service to the public we serve.

“Special constables engaging with the community and supporting the peak of demand; restorative justice volunteers supporting victims of crime; Community Speedwatch volunteers working for safer roads, and custody visitors checking on the welfare of those in custody are just a few examples of the volunteer roles undertaken with the aim of giving back to the community and protecting others.

“These people, alongside those who sit on our scrutiny panels, bring to our attention to how we could improve the service we offer and do things better.

“I really value the new outlook, additional skills and experience these individuals bring, and appreciate the time they give for the benefit of others.

“From all of us in the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Thank you.”

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Mills, leads on citizens in Policing for Wiltshire Police said “Volunteers week reminds us all of the impact volunteers have on individuals and organisations and gives us another opportunity to say thank you.

“Wiltshire Police is enriched by the individuals who volunteer with us. They bring with them skills and knowledge from other areas of business and industry, and bring us closer to the communities we serve.

“At a time when demands on resources are high volunteers allow us to go above and beyond the requirements of core policing.

“I would like to tell all our volunteers how grateful I am for your hard work and the commitment you make to the Force. We really appreciate all you do for us and give to the communities of Wiltshire and Swindon.”

You can find out more about the volunteering opportunities with Wiltshire Police on the Wiltshire Police website.